As a qualified, registered child nutritionist I get asked a lot of questions around fussy eating, nutrition for toddlers, and how to deal with mealtime stress. It is very common for kids to go through fussy eating at some stage,  but if you have tried everything you might be wondering whether a child nutritionist is needed. This blog explains when it might be time to seek help from a kids nutrition expert and how I can support parents and families with issues in feeding and kids’ nutrition.

What is a child nutritionist?

A pediatric nutritionist is a specially trained nutritionist who works with families. I help families with babies all the way up to adolescents get the nutrition they need to grow, develop, be healthy, happy and flourish. Feeding difficulties are also common with children and I have additional training in SOS feeding therapy that goes into the psychology of feeding. Not all kids nutritionist have training in feeding therapy.

Is a dietitian the same as a nutritionist?

No. A dietitian is a legally protected title and they will have done a dietetics degree. A dietitian can work in clinical settings, diagnose and treat nutrition related conditions. 

Whereas a nutritionist is not a protected title. Therefore it is important to work with a registered nutritionist, as anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. A registered nutritionist is registered with the Association for Nutrition and has a degree/ masters with the right qualifications as well at least 3 years experience. I have 15 plus! Registered Nutritionists must meet rigorous science-based standards.

How I help families as a child nutritionist

Through education and support I can guide you to feel confident in how and what to feed your child when fussy eating and other nutrition issues occur. So you can relax knowing your child is eating more variety and you can enjoy family mealtimes together.

I offer lots of different types of support to families and brands. Including: 

• One-to-one consultations to conquer fussy eating & enjoy new foods

Practical, proven advice in weaning, fussy eating or healthy eating to avoid making separate meals, enjoy eating out and raising a happy, healthy eater. 

• E-course (mealtime battles to mealtime bliss) 

A self paced course for busy parents to get confident in how to feed your child

• Nutrition audits of meals to ensure they are getting all the nutrition they need
  

Find out more about me as a childrens nutritionist

When might it be time to get support?

Here are some common signs that it’s helpful to seek guidance:

• Mealtimes are stressful or a daily battle that are not getting better.
  
• Fussy eating is affecting growth, variety or number of foods.
  
• Concerns about nutrition such as iron, fibre, or other nutrients
  
• Unsure how to wean or transition to family meals
  
• Your child is on a restrictive diet (e.g., allergies, vegan)
  
• You want tailored, expert reassurance
  

I have a more detailed blog with further information on picky eater vs problem feeder: when should i be concerned. 

What to expect in a consultation

I follow my unique ‘FOODS’ method and consultations are structured around this.

F– Find the issues

O– Observe triggers and patterns

O– Organise and educate such as mealtime strategies

D– Deliver goals.  We set realistic, step-by-step targets to guide your child toward food acceptance.

S-Success. Celebrate wins

You can find more detail about my 1-1 consultations here. 

Final Thoughts

Seeking support early from a registered nutritionist for kids is a positive, proactive step that can save you time second guessing what to try. Also become confident in how to feed your child using evidence based approach from an expert in nutrition for kids.


If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed with your child’s eating, I’m here to help. Book a free discovery call or browse my services to learn more.